2002 PT Cruiser, 105k, thinking about buying...

[thinkinboutit]

Hey there,

I'm looking to buy a 2002 PT Cruiser, 105k... thing is, I don't know much about these cars. I'm not looking to spend too much in maintenance, etc., so I need a car that isn't gonna break down on me too much in the long run (I'm a college student).

Of course, I know to get the car inspected before I buy it, and to keep it maintained while I own it, but does anyone have any good advice regarding these cars? Should I purchase it (dealer wants $3900)? Is the mileage too high?
Should I purchase an extended warranty?

Thanks

[garner49]

I have a Mazda Miata with 109k+ on it and it still runs strong. Car engines today will last much longer than back in the 60's. The big key though is the maintenance; as long as it has been taken care of - the big thing will be the timing belt and plugs/wires, transmission flush, etc... If you can have the car checked out by a mechanic you trust, do it. Do a little search on line to find out the value of the car, then take 15% off and you'll have a reasonable resale price. $3900 sounds a tad high for the mileage; is it a Limited? Condition? I would not think an 'Extended Warranty' would be offered on a car with that mileage - be very careful of the wording.

[Hooligan]

thinkinboutit, Welcome to the Forum.

Be very careful as the timing belt should have been changed by/at 100,000 miles, the parts and labor will run from $1000 up depending on where you go.

I helped my grand daughter buy a 2002 with 72,000 miles on it for $4,500, but it had timing belt, tensioner, water pump, new rotors on the front, new pads on the back, car had been a one owner. We got it from a auto shop who did all of the work, had a 30 day warranty. I felt the additional $$$'s was worth it as if she had to have the work done it would have cost her $1500 to repair & replace what would have been needed.

[garyerrol]

I purchased my 2001 LE about 18 months ago with 115,000 miles. I've put another 15,000 in it since. The only items I replaced have been a battery, the tires and rims. The rims with the chrome ones and so pitted around the bead that they weren't going to hold air. Besides these items, the only real changes have been to a shorty antenna, after market backup lights, Airaid Cold Air System and some non emergency warning lights (I use a part of my volunteer role).

Mine drives great, runs great, has started every morning, winter and summer. I drive it daily.

[nobodysfool55]

Originally Posted by thinkinboutit

Hey there,

I'm looking to buy a 2002 PT Cruiser, 105k... thing is, I don't know much about these cars. I'm not looking to spend too much in maintenance, etc., so I need a car that isn't gonna break down on me too much in the long run (I'm a college student).

Of course, I know to get the car inspected before I buy it, and to keep it maintained while I own it, but does anyone have any good advice regarding these cars? Should I purchase it (dealer wants $3900)? Is the mileage too high?
Should I purchase an extended warranty?

Thanks

Biggest issue would be the timing belt. I just had mine done a little early, at 92000 miles, ('04 Touring edition), but the peace of mind is worth it. The engine would be expensively destroyed if the timing belt were to break, as it is what they call an "interference" engine, where the valves would hit the pistons if the cam stops turning and the crank doesn't.

If you do the timing belt, also replace the water pump and idler, as it has to be torn down almost as far to replace them. Get it all done at once, and you're good for another 100,000 miles.

The only problems I've had with mine in nearly 100.000 miles is a bad rear wheel bearing (growling noise at about 50.000 miles), tie rod ends and a ball joint. I replaced the plugs and wires at 85,000 miles, and the front rotors and pads (went to ceramic pads, which are nice). Haven't touched the rear drums yet. My PT has been one of the best cars I've owned.

[Hooligan]

Biggest issue would be the timing belt. I just had mine done a little early, at 92000 miles, ('04 Touring edition), but the peace of mind is worth it. The engine would be expensively destroyed if the timing belt were to break, as it is what they call an "interference" engine, where the valves would hit the pistons if the cam stops turning and the crank doesn't.

Unfortunally the valves are not supposed to hit!!! As the engine is designed to not allow the valves to continue to operate. There have been some bent valves, but it is NOT a normal thing.

BTW, nobodysfool55, welcome to the Forum!!!

[YoungCruiserrr]

if you take care of your car, it'll take care of you

[mjb457]

Mine has 68K and going strong,,, neighbor had 205K before engine timing belt snapped(ouch) he screwed up by not changing it at 200k(2nd one) anyway check it out thoughly -offer $3200= settle for $3500 if clean with a warranty for 3K -60days good luck! MJB